You might’ve relied on your imagination quite a bit as a kid. After all, you were a pirate setting off to sea, and mom wasn’t too keen on letting you flood the living room with water.
Chances are, imagination will no longer cut it. To keep people engaged in your production, you need something to show them. Telling your audience to simply “Imagine a cave in that corner,” is not an option.
Here’s how it works in the world of grown-ups. After the set designer does research and works with the art director to create a plan, set construction begins. An important aspect of the building process is to work quickly and efficiently without sacrificing safety.
ECG is fully insured. We take the worry off your shoulders so you can focus on your project.
Who’s who and what do they do?
A construction manager is the person in charge of creating full-scale scenery in order to build a set. In the theatre world, this person is often the foreman of the scene shop or the “master carpenter.” That has a nice ring to it. This person works hand in hand with the production designer and art director to make the space into a place.
With their help, the audience has a better understanding of where the story takes place, what the circumstances are, and what time period we’re in. Pretty important stuff.
Set construction has many moving parts. Here’s a rundown of the process:
- Set construction begins with a location manager. This person scouts potential interior and exterior locations for the set. From there, the crew builds the rest on a soundstage or backlot.
- Again, research acts as a big part of production. In this case, it’s the concept artists who agonize over the details in order to create a space that is historically and physically accurate.
- The production designer, in short, finalizes concept drawings and creates models. There is a new focus on staying within budget.
- After these models are approved, they’re given to the art director, who oversees a team of draftsmen. This team creates 3-dimensional blueprints of the set.
- Finally, the building begins. The construction manager hires all the necessary crew. This may include carpenters, riggers, painters, stagehands, and more.
How does ECG tackle set construction?
We assist with all areas of production, set construction included. With the help of our team, you can create the ideal space.
ECG has an in-house studio with full audio and video equipment capabilities. This space is decked out with everything you need to make your production a success.
Features include a green screen cyc wall, TV white wall, and a full rigging grid, complete with 6 pre-hung DMX controlled dual-color temperature LED lights. In addition, this space has K-13 sound proofing and a full bay door for loading and unloading set pieces.
Even if this space doesn’t have everything you need, ECG has relationships with studios all across Atlanta. We can always find the perfect space to build something for you!
If you’re ready to start building your dream set—or if you want to see examples of awesome sets we’ve made—reach out to info@ecgprod.com today!